When the Dallas Cowboys drafted cornerback Kelvin Joseph in the second round in 2021 the thought was that he would be the team's CB2 opposite Trevon Diggs. Unfortunately, a groin injury affected his progress and he only logged 164 snaps.

Coming into the season, Joseph not only had the challenge of battling veterans Anthony Brown and Jourdan Lewis but he had the cloud of being a person of interest in a murder investigation early this year. So far, Joseph hasn't made an impact as a corner with just six defensive snaps, but he's contributing in another area, special teams.

The Cowboys have had a special teams ace for years in C.J. Goodwin. However, the argument can be made that Joseph has been the best special teams contributor so far this season. Using his speed and instincts, Joseph has made several tackles covering kicks, including multiple in the Cowboys' victory against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 5.

One play, in particular, stood out from Joseph. After missing the initial tackle, Joseph was able to recover and bring down the ball carrier for a minimal gain. Cowboys' special teams' coordinator, John Fassel, who has turned that specific unit around over the past few seasons, praised Joseph's effort on that rep.

"The G forces he must've felt when he changed directions to make that play," Fassel said.

When Joseph was on the field in 2021, although it was a small sample size, he showed flashes of the guy who some deemed a first-round talent. In his first start against the Washington Commanders, Joseph played 95% of the Cowboys' defensive snaps. He finished with three tackles and a pass breakup while allowing minus two yards on five targets.

In the Cowboys' season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles, Joseph got his second start. Playing all of the team’s 74 defensive snaps in a 51-26 rout, Joseph tallied nine tackles (seven solo) and nearly got his first career interception.

Joseph not only has the aforementioned Brown and Lewis to contend with for defensive snaps but also rookie DaRon Bland who prospered during training camp and the preseason. Until he finds his footing as a cornerback, Joseph has stepped up on special teams, which shows a lot of maturity and dedication on his part.

Feature image via Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports